BLACKSBURG - The university is moving forward with the Lane Stadium west side expansion with strong support from alumni. Several major donors have committed $1.9 million in order to enable planning efforts to proceed.

When stadium expansion plans were approved in 2001, the university board of visitors asked the university to conduct major gift feasibility for the west side project. The original schedule called for another review by the board at its June 2003 meeting. Since private funding has not been secured, the university will not move forward with construction now. The action this week on the part of several ardent supporters will however enable design and planning to continue and we will be able to maintain momentum on this important facility.

We are grateful for the stewardship shown by these friends of the university and know that their commitment will enable Hokie football to continue its advance toward excellence and national leadership.